5 Possible Landing Spots for Martin Brodeur

5 Possible Landing Spots for Martin Brodeur

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It is becoming more and more clear that the end of Martin Brodeur's career with the New Jersey Devils is imminent. He talks about how they need to move on with Cory Schneider, and how he would like some more playing time. It is clear that whatever team takes the plunge on him, they aren't getting the Brodeur of old. That doesn't mean teams won't call to see if he is interested. These five teams could have Brodeur in 2014-15.

Minnesota Wild

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Minnesota Wild

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The Minnesota Wild were the favorites to get Brodeur at the trade deadline this season. They opted to go with Ilya Bryzgalov instead. Word was the Devils' asking price was too high for them. Now that Brodeur is a free agent, the only asking price is money. The Wild showed they could be a good team with a better player in net. This could be the team to beat during the offseason.

Chicago Blackhawks

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Chicago Blackhawks

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Part of the equation is that Brodeur wants to play for a team that has a chance to win the Stanley Cup. Does any team have a better shot than the Chicago Blackhawks? The Hawks went after Brodeur when he was a free agent back in 2012, but he ended up returning to the Devils. He could go there to play in a platoon with Corey Crawford.

Toronto Maple Leafs

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Toronto Maple Leafs

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Brodeur was a hero in Canada for leading his country to a Gold Medal in 2002. He has been tied to the Canadiens at times, but he has said he doesn't see himself playing there. Toronto is a team that went after Brodeur last time he was a free agent. James Reimer is an RFA who could be allowed to walk. That would leave a hole for the backup role.

New York Islanders

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New York Islanders

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The New York Islanders are a team that some have pointed to as a possible destination. He wouldn't have to sell his house in New Jersey, and his family could stand pat. This seems unlikely. They have Jaroslav Halak who they just traded for. They are a good, young team, but not one that will contend next season. I also think he won't want to go to a division rival, but it is possible.

Detroit Red Wings

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Detroit Red Wings

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This is a wild card. Jonas Gustavsson is a free agent. Jimmy Howard has been an injury risk the last few years. He could end up starting at times during the season for a Stanley Cup contender. This might be a very enticing option for both parties.

New Jersey Devils ... As a Scout

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New Jersey Devils ... As a Scout

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I understand that this is the sixth team, but this needs to be said. When I say scout, I really mean inset front office position here. So quickly we forget that Brodeur was available during the trade deadline. Nine goalies were moved, but he was not one of them. Was that because the asking price was too high? Maybe, but it shows that his name value is just not as high. He could come back and represent the only franchise he has ever known.